WASHINGTON D.C: Members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee have urged Nepal to maintain peace through a democratic process amid recent unrest.

Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Chris Van Hollen issued a statement on Thursday, calling the recent violence, casualties, and arson in Nepal “unacceptable” while extending deep condolences to the victims and their families.

The statement appealed for accountability against those responsible for excessive use of force against citizens.

It emphasized that Nepal has achieved significant democratic progress over the past two decades, made possible through citizens’ strong contributions, and that such achievements must be safeguarded.

Highlighting that a peaceful, fully democratic, and dynamic Nepal is in the interest of Nepalis, the U.S., and the wider region, the senators expressed confidence that the Nepal government will address corruption and institutional weaknesses to restore public trust.